Surround Me

Revolutionary Faith #2

by Marguerite Martin Gray

As the dark curtain of the rumors of revolution threatens to descend, Louis Lestarjette pursues his relationship with Elizabeth even as the emotional and physical struggles set the course for a life of changes. Will his commitment to God stay firm, or will the tide of change cause fear and flight?

The chance of reconciliation with England moves further out to sea, leaving Elizabeth Elliott on the shores of surrender to a greater challenge. Although others of unwavering courage give her strength, she must choose to allow God’s love to surround her. How can she enter into a marriage during a time of uncertainty? Will selfish, safer options take her away from Louis and his love?

Set in 1773 Charles Town, Surround Me, the sequel to Hold Me Close, takes the reader into the lives of colonists confronting imminent change and unpredictable circumstances binding them together to become a formidable force.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Historical Romance, Historical, Fiction, Christian Romance, War

277 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2019

About the author

Marguerite Martin Gray is the author of the Revolutionary Faith Series, the Gardens in Time series, two books in Suamalie Islands series, the Elements of Hope series, and Christmas novellas. She enjoys studying history and writing fiction. An avid traveler and reader, she teaches French and Spanish. She currently lives in North Louisiana with her husband and rescue cats and dog. Her two adult children and two grandsons keep her young and energetic.

Reviews

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marguerite Martin Gray's book Surround Me is the second book in the Revolutionary Faith series. The first book was titled Hold Me Close, and there is a review of that novel on my blog too if you would like to check that out. I recommend reading these texts in order so that you can understand not only the chronology of historical content, but so that you can also grow with the hopes, dreams, and struggles of each character. I thoroughly enjoyed each of these books, and I highly recommend reading both of them. I love historical fiction, because it helps the reader understand another time period, as they come to see it through the eyes of various individuals in the text. And hopefully it adds a level of appreciation and respect to those people who lived during such challenging times.

This book continues with the familiar characters that were introduced in the first book. Louis Lestarjette is still battling with his thoughts and feelings when it comes to the present state of the colonies. He continually considers his family in France knowing how much France wants to side with and help this new land. Britain is still trying to tax the people, and many of them are beginning to rebel against the Crown. The Sons of Liberty obtains more followers daily, while Louis listens to the preaching and predicaments of the people; however, he will soon realize they are his people, because his home is now in Charles Town. Yet how will the present turmoil among the people affect his family business? And what will perilous times suggest regarding his affections toward Elizabeth? What could it mean for their future?

Elizabeth Elliot knows she loves Louis, but she has to convince those around her of his worthiness. After all he is an outsider when it comes to her family--a Frenchman and a member of the Sons of Liberty. What will it take to help her parents understand how much she wants to marry him? Her father is still loyal to the Crown; therefore, he does not grasp why Elizabeth and her sister Anne have changed their loyalties. As the ocean waters between the colonies and Great Britain begin to grow more hazardous, Elizabeth wonders what her future will look like. All she has ever wanted is to enjoy the simple luxuries in life, but she knows she must stay informed with all that is happening in the world in order to take a stand with the Daughters of Liberty.

It is so interesting to consider that several of the people Gray wrote about in these books did truly exist. There really was a Louis Lestarjette and a Elizabeth Elliot. And several of their friends, who they worked with on a daily basis, also lived in Charles Town during the late 1700's, including Elizabeth's sister and brother-in-law. This makes these novels that much more enduring, because Gray took the time to travel to these places in order to learn more about them, as she researched these particular times in history. And I am so happy to announce that she is working on book three in this series! The title for the third book is Bring Me Near, and I cannot wait to read more about the joys and challenges surrounding Louis, Elizabeth, and the new colonies. Happy reading!


This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to Singing Librarian Books for my copy.

[Regina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can it get any better?

Surround Me picks up where book one left off. If you're just starting to read this book I highly recommend you begin with the first one.

This book is deeply enriched with the Sons of Liberty and others of the Revolution Period. I loved all the action, drama, and romance in the story.

In this story you can see how devoted Louis and Elizabeth are to each other. It's so enduring to know someone loves you like that (my hubby is devoted to me like that).

I'm looking forward to book three in this series!

I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I had to rate this book in 1 word it would be WOW!!
This book has it all. It's well written, action packed, page turner, has romance, It's historical, keeps you the edge of your seat wanting to read more and will hook you instantly on the series.
I do suggest though if your planning to read this series you read it in order. Will make more sense if you do. Trust me I know because I won this book in a random drawing from her site and read the books out of order.
I highly recommend this book and series and Will read again.

[Olivia · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I finished the first book of this series I was anxious to see how Elizabeth and Louis' lives continued. While I didn't enjoy the second book quite as much, there are still many things I liked about it.

What I liked:

-The historical parts in this book are intriguing. I love how the author brought in several well-known politicians from the 1770s through the eyes of fictional characters. The Boston tea party and the Intolerable Acts play a role in this story as well.
-Very few books that I've read show characters after they're married. I liked that in this!
-Lots of great spiritual messages. Several instances of the salvation message given, and several verse references.

What I didn't like as much:

-At the beginning especially there seemed to be a lot more telling than showing. It made it harder to read.
-There are lots of kisses in here-especially after marriage. Thankfully, it wasn't too "feely-feely" focused.
-I felt like a few things in the book didn't really have a purpose for the rest of the story. Samuel and Sarah for instance. There are several sections are focused on them getting together. I guess it's like normal life-other things shown going around Elizabeth and Louis'-but it just seemed to take away from other parts of the story.

All in all a historical novel that history lovers would enjoy.

*I received this in exchange for an honest review*

[Sydney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surround Me book two in Marguerite Martin Gray’s Revolutionary Faith series is another beautifully written and richly researched historical novel. Filled with countless historical details and delightful characters, Gray captivates readers, especially history buffs, with this wonderful story taking place during the pre-Revolutionary War in South Carolina; with stirrings from the Sons and Daughters of Liberty and mentioning of Britain’s Tea Act and the colonies rebellions against it. This story revolves around the romance of French-man Louis Lestarjette and colonist and British Elizabeth Elliott during this time of confusion and unrest. Gray beautifully brings to life historical events, as well as the stories of her characters, pulling readers in from the beginning all the way until the very end. I would recommend this novel to readers that enjoy historical fiction.

Series: Revolutionary Faith
Genre: historical, Christian, Womens
Publisher: WestBow Press
Publication date: September 19, 2016
Number of pages: 228

Content Rating: PG
Book Rating: 5 stars

Other books in the series:
1-Hold Me Close

A print review copy of this novel was provided by the author via CelebrateLit. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

[Virginia Winfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love to read about this time period. The Revolutionary War is one of my favorite storiy times. This is the second book in the Revolutionary Faith series. It was fun to find out if Elizabeth and Louis would be be able to marry with or without her fathers blessing. This is probably going to be the happiest time for these families for a few years because this is right before the actual fighting will begin. This has romance, and a little religion and politics. I received this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion.

[Kristine Morgan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surround Me is set in the days leading up to the American Revolution. I enjoyed the fact that it takes place in Charles Town South Carolina instead of the usual New England setting for tales of the Revolution. Although the plot's development was a bit slow, the story was enjoyable. The relationships between the characters were well developed, and I loved the way Louis and Elizabeth's faith grew. I look forward to reading Draw Me To Your Side, the third book in the series.

From Amazon:
As the dark curtain of the rumors of revolution threatens to descend, Louis Lestarjette pursues his relationship with Elizabeth even as the emotional and physical struggles set the course for a life of changes. Will his commitment to God stay firm, or will the tide of change cause fear and flight?



The chance of reconciliation with England moves further out to sea, leaving Elizabeth Elliott on the shores of surrender to a greater challenge. Although others of unwavering courage give her strength, she must choose to allow God’s love to surround her. How can she enter into a marriage during a time of uncertainty? Will selfish, safer options take her away from Louis and his love?



Set in 1773 Charles Town, Surround Me, the sequel to Hold Me Close, takes the reader into the lives of colonists confronting imminent change and unpredictable circumstances binding them together to become a formidable force.

About the author:
Marguerite enjoys the study of history, especially when combined with fiction. An avid traveler and reader, she teaches French and has degrees in French, Spanish, and Journalism from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas. Recently, she received an MA in English from Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene. She has two grown children and currently lives with her husband in Abilene, Texas.
She writes historical fiction. Hold Me Close: Revolutionary Faith Book One is set in pre-revolution Charles Town and takes the reader into the lives of immigrants, ordinary citizens, and prominent historical figures at a time in which decisions are made that will change the world.
Surround Me: Revolutionary Faith Book Two (Fall 2016), Bring Me Near; Revolutionary Faith Book Three (2017), Draw Me to Your Side (Work in Progress).

I was given the book by the author for review purposes. All thoughts are my own.


Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/disp...?

HTML: ​a Rafflecopter giveaway

[Lynda · Rating 4 out of 5]

After enjoying Marguerite Martin Gray’s first book in the Revolutionary Faith series, I was eager to continue the story in this next installment. As with the earlier book, Surround Me lets the reader experience a rapidly changing society beginning to advocate for representation and their own leadership rather than being dominated by a distant Parliament—through the eyes of those who lived it and reacted to ground-breaking events of their own day.

I appreciated the attention to historical detail, not just with the political events leading up to revolution, but in the day to day lives of the men and women living during that time. For example, enjoying tea while it was available, before stock became depleted and then unobtainable to those who supported liberty. That some switched to coffee made me smile as I had never thought of my own coffee habit as particularly patriotic before! The details about how women prepared as they were able by attending meetings and sewing secret pockets in petticoats to hide jewelry, documents, or even weapons should the need arise is fascinating to me as someone who loves history.

It struck me as very applicable today, in the somewhat uncertain times we are living in, that the faith of those who lived in a historically turbulent era is the same as my own; I take encouragement from that, believing that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He did not forsake His children then and He will not do so now. Realizing that these are historical characters in a novel does not dim that encouragement, either—people living then must have felt similar things, and many of these characters are also historical figures, too, who said and did much of what they are portrayed as having done in this book.

This is an interesting read for fans of historical fiction, especially novels set during the pre-Revolutionary era. Those who enjoy romance or a family saga will also find a welcome new installment in the series. I would highly recommend reading the first book before picking this one up, however; while it could be read as a standalone, I believe readers will get much more enjoyment from this novel if they are familiar with the characters before beginning it.

I received a free copy of this book through Celebrate Lit but no compensation for this review. I was not required to write a favorable one and the opinions expressed are both honest and my own.

[Jalynn Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

About the Book:

As the dark curtain of the rumors of revolution threatens to descend, Louis Lestarjette pursues his relationship with Elizabeth even as the emotional and physical struggles set the course for a life of changes. Will his commitment to God stay firm, or will the tide of change cause fear and flight?

The chance of reconciliation with England moves further out to sea, leaving Elizabeth Elliott on the shores of surrender to a greater challenge. Although others of unwavering courage give her strength, she must choose to allow God's love to surround her. How can she enter into a marriage during a time of uncertainty? Will selfish, safer options take her away from Louis and his love?

Set in 1773 Charles Town, Surround Me, the sequel to Hold Me Close, takes the reader into the lives of colonists confronting imminent change and unpredictable circumstances binding them together to become a formidable force.


My Review:

God always keeps things interesting. Anyone that has been a Christian long and has a very close relationship with God will tell you. He is a very fly by the seat of your pants type of individual and when following Him it will always lead you on the adventure of a lifetime. He is in no way dull.



The Revolutionary War brought about a lot of uncertainty for many, many people. The two main characters in the very well written novel; Surround Me, definitely display that uncertainty well within the pages of the story. The only way that people can get through perilous times is to give it all to God. These changes can usually drive a person to fall to their knees and call out to Him like never before.


Elizabeth and Louis find themselves in just the right situation for this perfect storm of sorts. The type of perfect storm that the devil creates in order for you to doubt God and doubt every promise He has ever given you. Poor Elizabeth and Louis, I was able to be drawn into their love affair right from the beginning. The author takes you on a journey of love, loss, and uncertainty of the future. Surround Me is beautifully written and a great addition to the Revolutionary Faith series.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.

[Sally · Rating 3 out of 5]

The end of Hold Me Close had Louis leaving Charles Town on a ship for France. I presumed, therefore, that Surround Me would focus on his separation with Elizabeth and how that would impact their relationship. There would be drama of some kind, possibly related to the Revolution, and they would then reconcile in time for a wedding at the end of the book. I was way off. The separation was actually over by chapter four, and the wedding took place halfway through.

I wanted to enjoy Surround Me, but I couldn’t get into it. It felt rushed at times. The separation lasted four months, but appeared to fly by. The first book of the Revolutionary Faith series covered less than a year whereas book two covers 18 months. As a result, there are gaps of time and some events are merely mentioned in passing. At the same time, readers are given details such as the titles and composers of the music Louis and Elizabeth dance to. I spotted a couple of continuity issues which threw me off. I also thought the book tried too hard to be Christian fiction because references to faith, God and the Bible seemed to appear on every other page and especially in conversations between Louis and Elizabeth.

Surround Me does provide snapshots of life in the run up to Independence. These were the parts I enjoyed the most. Readers see how families and communities were divided over the issues of taxation and representation. Businesses lost customers based on which side of the argument the owners stood. Stores had to adapt when goods from Britain were boycotted. Elizabeth and her sister wonder about bringing children into such uncertain times. There are also continued appearances by key figures in the Revolution, including John and Abigail Adams.

The book closes at the end of 1774. A quick glance at Gray’s author page on Amazon shows there are at least two more books to come in the series. I wonder if it will end with Independence in 1776 or the end of the Revolutionary War in 1783. I guess I’ll have to wait and see.

Thank you to Celebrate Lit and the author for my complimentary copy of Surround Me, which I received in exchange for my honest review.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Meticulously researched and rich with historical detail, Surround Me continues the story of Louis Lestarjette and Elizabeth Elliott – the author’s actual ancestors who lived and breathed and fell in love during the pre-Revolutionary stirrings in South Carolina.

Along with Louis and Elizabeth’s romance, the discontent in the colonies has nearly reached a boiling point and loyalties are becoming more dangerous, more defined, and more divided by the day. Peeking over Louis’ shoulder as he signs the document that will help Charles Town merchants protest Britain’s Tea Act is one of my favorite scenes in the book. The author well-captures the tension of the moment, the sobriety of Louis’ thoughts, the weight of the decision and its implications for the future.

Bottom Line: As with Hold Me Close, the dialogue sometimes sounds more like narrative and the narrative sometimes reads like a history textbook BUT the characters are so vivid and engaging that it was easy to overlook this issue of preference as I read. The emphasis on hope and on trusting God despite an uncertain future is timely for our world today just as much as it applied to the world in which Louis and Elizabeth lived. Fans of historical fiction will appreciate the author’s attention to detail, and after the mysterious note Louis receives I am even more so looking forward to the next book and learning what lies ahead for them in 1775.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)

see my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Surround Me" By Marguerite Martin Gray is the second book in the "Revolutionary Faith Book Series" and is a fiction and love story that is based mostly on history, pre-American Revolution and The Sons Of Liberty. It picks up when Louis comes back to Charles Town after departing at the end of "Hold Me Close", book one in the series.
The story was interwoven with Biblical truth all through the novel and reminds the reader that God does "Surround" us at all times.
This story tells the continuing story of Louis and Elizabeth and how they trust their love and their personal future and the future of Charles Town to God.

I like the fact that despite many obstacles surrounding their engagement, love won out. I also enjoyed the romance between Samuel and Sarah, friends of Louis and Sarah's.

I think anyone would enjoy this book without reading the first one "Hold Me Close" but I strongly recommend reading them in order to get the complete story.

The ending is a little disappointing because it leaves you hanging, and I found myself wondering if there is going to be a third book in the series. I certainly hope there is another!

I am giving "Surround Me" by Marguerite Martin Gray five stars.

I was given a complimentary copy Of "Surround Me" by Celebrate Lit and the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surround Me continues the story of Louis and Elizabeth in pre-Revolutionary War Charles Town, South Carolina that was begun in Hold Me Close. Again, I loved the perspective of the era from the different locale, and it was exciting to have famous Americans from that time make an appearance in this story. One thing I appreciated about both Louis and Elizabeth, was that along with strong and growing faith in God, they were able to surround themselves, in that uncertain time, with people who loved and supported them. They also remained loving to those who were not of the same political persuasion as they.

There were some very descriptive and detailed passages in this book that I loved, like of the house that they were preparing. I did, however, have trouble reading some clunky dialogue, and I wished that time transitions and transitions from narrative to dialogue had been smoother. However, I am looking forward to the continuation of Louis and Elizabeth's story, and I love that it is a story from the author's ancestry! Other historical fiction readers will certainly appreciate that.

I received a copy of this book from the author through Celebrate Lit for review purposes. The thoughts expressed here are my own.

[CJ Myerly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surround Me, while not my favorite book, was an enjoyable read. It is well written with likable, but realistic characters who are fighting against insurmountable odds due to the beginnings of the Revolutionary War. Marguerite Martin Gray did an amazing job of sticking close to historical facts and making you feel like you were walking right next to Louise and Elizabeth in South Carolina back when it was just a territory. Their love is true and tested amidst difficulty and their faith in God is strong.


The only reason I say that this book was not my personal favorite is because I am not a history buff. While I enjoy reading historical fiction, contemporary fiction is my preference. For me, parts of this book seemed slow, but I recognize that this would not be a problem for someone who loves historical fiction, more than I do.


I highly recommend this book if you enjoy historical fiction, especially if you enjoy reading about the time period of the Revolutionary War. I would give this book four stars.


I was given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review for Celebrate Lit in exchange for an honest and fair review.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book #2 in the Revolutionary faith Series. I had not read Book 1. I had no problem following along and getting to know the characters. Louis Lestarjette, Frenchman turned Patriot is completely in love with his secret fiance Elizabeth Elliot. One of the major hurdles you will see them go through is the fact that Elizabeth's father is a Loyalist. He is less then thrilled that his daughter is in love with a Frenchman and a Patriot.

I loved getting lost in Charles Town, SC and the struggle that was going on during this time period. I loved reading the story of Louis and Elizabeth and seeing some of the struggles they went through. The author's characters and descriptions are so real it's like you are there with them watching the story unfold.

Louis is a fairly new Christian and watching him get comfortable with his new faith and adjust his life accordingly.

If you are a fan of Historical Fiction - you will love this book

I received a courtesy copy of this book from the author --- all opinions are my own.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is probably one of my favorite reads of 2016! Christian historical fiction is one of my favorite genres, and this is a really great example. Marguerite Martin Gray has a writing style that I really enjoy; she has a talent for letting the reader get to know her characters well. The reader will feel that they truly experience the time right before the Revolutionary War broke out. Her research and the cultural details included really seem to bring the time period alive. The growing tension between the colonies and England, and also between loyalists and patriots, was palpable in this book. This is the second book I have read in this series, and I can hardly wait for the next one. I highly recommend it.

I was given a free copy by the author, but this review is my honest evaluation as a reader.

[Missica Skeens pullen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really good book, especially if you are a history buff, like me. The Revolutionary period is one of my favorites to study. Just sit and imagine the struggle those in that time faced. The nation was just forming, they were faced with mounting uncertainty in the face of breaking away from England and monarchy. Families were torn apart, and friendships severed. Not to mention, the war itself. Spies, allies, enemies, etc...it's all so intriguing to me. Marguerite Martin Gray captures this tumultuous time beautifully in Surround Me, Book two in her Revolutionary Faith series. Her writing style is easy to follow, well researched, and the pacing is flow are both pleasing. The characters are lively, and well fleshed, with personalities that grow and evolve as the book progresses. The settings and plot are well describe, and make you feel like you are truly there. Well done!

[Crystal Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surround Me is book two in Marguerite Martin Gray's Revolutionary Faith Series and the first book that I have had the pleasure of reading by this author. This was a great book that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. Ms. Gray has a unique writing style that is all her own and one that you will enjoy especially if you enjoy reading Historical Fiction.

Surround Me continues the story of Louis and Elizabeth. Louis is returning to Charles Town, a colony in South Carolina and is facing obstacles surrounding his engagement to Elizabeth and a city questioning its role in a volatile resistance to British rule. With so much uncertainty going on, will Elizabeth and Louis' relationship stand a chance, will Louis's commitment to God stay firm?

I received a copy of this book for free. No favorable review was required. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy historical novels and this one does not disappoint, we are back with friends that we met in the first book in this series set in Revolutionary times.
We get to travel around the colonies by way of a trip to Boston, and see first-hand what is going on to make these famous men want independence from England.
We also are given some sweet romance, and hope for a future between two of those that we met previously. Will these two, one French and the other a daughter of a staunch supporter of the Crown, be able to marry?
I loved all the updates, as we move forward, and am looking forward to a conclusion to this series, or I want to have more!

I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love historical Christian romances filled with drama, action, and romance ~ this book is right up your alley!

As I read Surround Me, I was immediately immersed in colonial life set in 1773 Charles Town. I followed the story of Elizabeth and Louis as they face choices of faith, love and the threat of imminent war. I found this story to be enchanting and I thoroughly enjoyed this book!

Please note ~ I received this book for free. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

[Melissa Wardwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romance and history all wrapped into one story. What more could this history buff long for? I love how the author wove the two together in a beautiful way, keeping this stingy reader hooked.
Ms. Gray clearly spent many hours painstakingly researching this time in history so that the reader may be fully immersed in colonial South Carolina. I appreciate the accuracy and time she took.
The blossoming love story was gripping as they find a way to make their lives work in tandem to looming war.

[Karen Hadley · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful story of love and devotion both personally and patriotic for Louis and Elizabeth. We have so much to be thankful for as this story reminds us of how much sacrifice was given to be a free country.

Blessings,

Karen

I received this book for my honest review.

Rating: 4

[Jt Furbay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though i didn't read the first book in this series, this one covered much of what was in it. This is pre-American revolutionary war. Elizabeth finds her courage and strength from God. Her fiance Louis comes back from France and they are later married. There is a lot of intrigue about who is allied with what side as the nation prepares for war.

[Sandra Bagwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good story

I love researching my own family history and ask some of the same questions Author Marguerite Martin Gray asked as she researched this book and began imagining living in the revolutionary war times. One of my questions has always been why my family began moving farther and farther west. Were they trying to get the family to a safe area away from the war?

[Kayla Tornello · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed all the details about life in America leading up to the Revolutionary War. I mostly liked the characters, but the main ones seemed too good to be true. For such a riveting time period, I felt like not that much action took place in this story.

[Tina Middleton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am thoroughly enjoying this series! Watching the characters grow in their faith as they face the imminent threat of war is so inspiring. It's easy to get pulled into their story and begin to feel like they are old friends.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

As children, we learn about some of the heroes of the early days of our country, such as Paul Revere, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin. Every family has heroes, even those families separated by the cause – England or America. The history in this novel is demonstrated through everyday people it effects in a manner that would invite more students to appreciate our fabulous history.
Louis Lestarjette is a merchant from France who has chosen Charles Town, SC as his new home. Before leaving on a voyage to visit his family and bring orders back, he asked his sweetheart, Elizabeth Elliott, to marry him. She agreed, but they were not going to make an announcement until he returns and pray that her father will give his blessing. Louis’ newfound faith in Jesus as his Lord and Savior brings them closer together, and thrills his mother.
Elizabeth teaches music at a girls’ boarding school. She, her sister Anne and her husband, and Louis, are Partisans, desiring either a compromise with England to get proper representation from the King or to have a separate government. The Tea Act, imposing huge tariffs on the colonies, led to even greater challenges between the colonies and the King. Elizabeth and Ann’s father and their brother George are Loyalists, staying loyal to the King and mother country.
One of the reasons Elizabeth’s father had hoped Louis didn’t return to Charles Town is their political differences. Louis and Elizabeth, along with Anne and her husband Robert, are people of great faith and prayer, knowing that to get through the potential storms of war and getting Mr. Elliott’s approval requires God. Elizabeth prays and believes in God’s love surrounding her, and Louis, and demonstrates a powerful reliance on the Lord
The characters are defined through their dialog, prayers, and actions, each building throughout the novel. Clothing, activities, and work round out each person. Elizabeth’s best friend, Sarah, Louis’ friend and business partner, Christopher, play huge roles in the couple’s lives. There is even a little included about personalities of folks such as Samuel Adams and John Adam’s wife, Abigail.
This novel can be read as a standalone. It would be much better to begin with the first in series as this is a continuation of the same people and situations. I would like to go back and read the earlier novel, and hope also to see future novels about this family. I am impressed with the very active faith demonstrated throughout, no matter what life brings to the characters. This is an inspirational, historical novel that includes love stories; the author weaves all three elements together beautifully. It is a compelling novel. It drew me in quickly, quickly reacquainting me with the early days of our country. The need for God’s help in every aspect of our lives is emphasized without preaching. I enjoyed seeing how the ladies gathered and encouraged each other, and worked together during crises. It was exciting to see how the women, while not directly involved with the political climate, learned about what was going on and saw it as a way to support their husbands and children. I highly recommend this very enjoyable novel to those who appreciate stories that show God as the foundation of the lives of the characters, a significant dose of important history, and Christian romance.
From a grateful heart: I received a copy of this from the author through a Goodreads First contest; no review was required.

[Cindy Pye · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the character development of each of the people in this story. It was absorbing to be taken along with developing relationships. I will definitely read this seies again.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surround Me, book two in the Revolutionary Faith series by Marguerite Gray, is an in-depth historical fiction surrounding the town of Charles Town, South Carolina and its residents. I was thrilled to read this book to see what was happening with the two main characters, Frenchman Louis Lestarjette, as he had choose to make Charles Town his home in book one, Hold Me Close, and resident Elizabeth Elliott, daughter of a prominent British citizen.

Elizabeth’s faith was real and I felt her close relationship with God and leaning upon Him, knowing He was surrounding her with His Love during the troublesome times. Louis had previously joined the Sons of Liberty and the independent movement of the colonies from Great Britain. Gray’s writing and historical ancestry connection to this era gave this book realistic account of the turmoil the residents were facing---whether to join the Sons of Liberty or remain with the Loyalists.

I was right in the moment with all my senses while reading about the interwoven historical accounts with the characters and other colonies in regards to whether they would move forward or be tied to the demands of Great Britain. With the Elliot family divided on their views, the dialogues between one another were tense at times and challenging. The scriptures Gray had Elizabeth and Louis to draw on are ones readers can apply to their lives today with the current situation in the United States. Scripture verses like Psalms 61, Philippians 4:11-13 and Proverbs 16:7. I appreciated the spiritual emphasis of the characters, as their religion was a priority during this time. The accurate accounts of events happening in Charles Town, the ports with ships bringing cargo in and not allowed to unload, dumping of the tea, along with the meetings in Philadelphia, with our forefathers being mentioned that represented their respective state brought history to life.

The Revolutionary Faith series is one of the best series I’ve read that is set during this period in America history. The characters are true to life and well developed along with their struggles, relationships within families and friends who had different views, and the genuine restating of the events that changed America. I look forward to Marguerite Gray’s next book which surely will be during 1776 and the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

I received a complimentary copy of Surround Me from the author. I was not required to write a positive review but have shared my honest opinion of this remarkable historical fiction.

[Kathleen E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sunday, December 4, 2016
Surround Me by Marguerite Martin Gray, © 2016
Revolutionary Faith, Book Two

About ten years ago I stood in the front bedroom of my parent’s antebellum house listening to my father tell stories about his ancestors–my ancestors while waving around a silver candlestick–my eight times great-grandfather’s gift to his bride. A story was born and I was off to Charleston, S.C.
--author Marguerite Martin Gray

Charles Town, colony of South Carolina, 1773
Waiting faithfully at the dock, Elizabeth Elliott searches the horizon to catch a closer glimpse of the sea-worthy vessel, The Rose, as her brother-in-law and hidden beloved are arriving.To see their approach in the distance! Father would believe her imperiled should he suspect her love for Louis Lestarjette and his for her. Louis has purchased a home, their home, once their engagement is announced and a wedding date arriving. Soon. Oh, my dear Lord, may it be soon! Invited to dinner with his aunt and uncle, her mother entrusted her to go, but only this once. Would Mother ever have an agreement of her own, separate from Father's whims for her? His plans, his ideals. So separate. Elizabeth's stick out so rationally, or irrationally he certainly would say, should he know or become aware of her views as a variance to his.

Louis. How alive it is to see him again. The months separated at sea; how can her sister and their children manage with her husband, Robert, apart from them so long? Manage. Such a strong word. Not to be idle, so the hours fly by until time stops once again for them alone.

When Louis was with Elizabeth, it was hard to concentrate on the negative––war, conflicts, insults, the enemy. In her presence, he focused only on peace, love, and hope.
--Surround Me, 65-66.

Certain that outside motives will not hamper their lives together, Louis and Elizabeth stay true to their plans and confidence in each other. Their future together looms large on their hearts.

A crucial time in history is right around the corner. The author has written a comprehensive involvement of the elements of Partisan and Loyalist views. What is ahead of them will cement choice and conviction. Safety for all is at hand. Will they be able to see through to each other?

***Thank you to Celebrate Lit for inviting me to be part of the blog tour for Surround Me. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***